<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">It&#39;s entirely different to work remotely compared to regular office work. You cannot simply use the same tools in a </span>virtual workspace as you would in an office. You can expect your <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/how-to-manage-a-remote-team-with-5-essential-tips">remote team</a> to face challenges as well, just as any new team would be likely to do. It is precisely because of this that you need virtual office software.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Utilizing a virtual office tool can allow you to ensure your team is working efficiently and creating the right environment for a virtual office. What&#39;s the best tool for your virtual business, considering the hundreds of software options available?</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">We&#39;ll cover all the essentials of virtual office software in this article. Let&#39;s look at the software used for managing the virtual office, along with its key features, functions, and benefits.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" ><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">What is Virtual Workspace?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Workplaces that are virtual connect users, regardless of their geographical location, digitally. Since business is conducted over any popular&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/jam">online meeting tool</a> like email, mail, internet, and video, this workplace has multiple locations that are not always the same. Through such technology, the company&#39;s employees communicate with each other, and the staff communicates with clients/customers.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Why are Virtual Workspaces Important?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Why are Virtual Workspaces Important" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210909/3-Virtual-Workspace-Software-to-Work-Digitally-With-Your-Team_21f49ba1d4d.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">There is no concrete </span>virtual workplace definition, but one can describe it as a shared workspace that allows employees to communicate and collaborate whether they are in the office or on the go. The virtual workplace meaning also highlights a combination of technology systems, human processes, and online processes in digital workplaces to minimize unnecessary costs. There are lots of reasons why virtual workspaces are great for working under these horrendous circumstances. In addition to the fact that they are great for working during these disastrous times, these are the other benefits of the best virtual workspace.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Remote work can be easily transitioned</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">The pandemic is still wreaking havoc on many people, but many manage well with a </span>virtual workspace from home. As employees work at home using tools already available to them, they feel safe and comfortable. Neither productivity nor efficiency has been affected.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">A greater market opportunity and a higher profit</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="A greater market opportunity and a higher profit" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210909/3-Virtual-Workspace-Software-to-Work-Digitally-With-Your-Team_37c9603570d.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Because you can hire workers and&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/work-anywhere">work from anywhere</a> in the world, you can also reach out to these same employees for business opportunities near their localities. The many savings opportunities that virtual workspaces provide also allow you to generate higher profits.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Costs are lower if the office is not physically located</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">You don&#39;t need to pay rent and other expenses associated with an actual office, such as security and maintenance, as in a virtual workspace. In addition, you don&#39;t have to spend much money on the popular </span>virtual workspace software to enlarge your team.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Environment-friendly</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Lower emissions result from employees no longer having to commute.</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">List of the Best Virtual Workspace Tools</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Many </span>virtual workspace apps or software are available, and they are effortless to set up, such as Jam and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-as-a-service">Autonomous hybrid working</a>. Additionally, some organizations set up different tools for individual activities to set up a virtual office space. Below is a handpicked list of services and tools from each category that one can use for collaboration:</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">1. Autonomous Hybrid Working</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Autonomous Hybrid Working" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210909/3-Virtual-Workspace-Software-to-Work-Digitally-With-Your-Team_4b73739626b.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Today&#39;s workplace is marked by a change that sees employees rotating between working at home and working in offices with a </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/top-hybrid-work-model-options">hybrid work model</a>. Organizational workspaces are evolving alongside workplace dynamics, and this innovative design leverages these changes. It is easier than ever to arrange employee seating with Autonomous hybrid software.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Different individuals occupy the same physical workstation throughout the course of the day. It helps employees transition to a hybrid work culture with its compatibility with Android, Mac, and Windows. This organizational workspace system is innovative because it utilizes an easy-to-use seating arrangement system.</span></p>

<ul dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">When your employees come to work, they will have a workspace.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Provides an automated system for identifying empty desks at your facility.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">You can integrate other business automation solutions and software easily with this integration.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Mobile devices make it convenient to make desk reservations.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Making effective choices about space allocation is easier with access to in-depth data.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">Flexible and versatile working environments enhance employee productivity</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">You get updates that are accurate and visible in real-time.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">The process of mapping out and reserving desks for socially distant locations becomes quick and easy.</span></li>
	<li role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">An admin dashboard reflects schedules and spaces, so there&#39;s no need for paperwork.</span></li>
</ul>

<h3 dir="ltr">2. Mural</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">In addition to being useful virtual software for designers, this can be used by any kind of business. No matter where you are or what time zone you are in, you can collaborate in one place. Cloud-based software offers the convenience of accessing it every time and anywhere from any device. Create individual workspaces on the app so you can work on multiple projects at once.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">At the different stages of the project, you will be notified when any employee leaves or joins the project. Collaboration on a project is facilitated by collaborative thinking and real-time feedback. It is possible to collaboratively work on a variety of projects simultaneously using individual workspaces. The Mural platform simplifies project transparency by delivering a simple digitized visual representation of work.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">3. Jam</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Jam" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210909/3-Virtual-Workspace-Software-to-Work-Digitally-With-Your-Team_5db170bf47c.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">In </span>virtual workspace and <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/hybrid-workplace-what-and-how-it-work">hybrid workplace</a>, JAM makes your team calls easy and is great for brainstorming sessions on the fly. Autonomous does not require installation; all you need to do is enter your work email ID on the Autonomous site. This team-call application is built for aiding creative discussion online. It doesn&rsquo;t require any download &ndash; simply link the browser-based tool to your work email.</p>

<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-457dc577-7fff-445c-15fd-ac4b605d8c68">A pass code will be provided next so that you can start. This tool is an easy and intuitive&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/9-remote-work-communication-software">remote work software</a> because it displays all activities on a single screen. The team chat system is shared by all teammates and supports screen-sharing and private conversations.</p>

We build office products to help you work smarter.

Autonomous

Hybrid Working

Hybrid Working - The Future of Work

Office Hoteling

Flexible Workforce

Hot Desking

back  to office

It's possible to use a virtual workspace for better collaboration in a virtual workspace. We’ve reviewed the top tools here for you to pick for your workspace.

3 Virtual Workspace Software to Work Digitally With Your Team

With a hybrid return to the office, your company can change completely. However, you can’t enjoy the benefits if you don't know about the model. Read on!

Hybrid Return to Office: Is it Possible Now?

Are you wondering what’s the general opinion of hybrid work, or how it’s faring in today’s business world? Check these hybrid works statistics to find out.

2023 Statistics of Hybrid Work Model You Should Know

In essence, <a href="www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-as-a-service">hybrid work</a> consists of an arrangement where employees can be flexible with the location where they work. Thus, in other words, they can work both onsite or offsite, depending on the company’s arrangements and the employees’ preferences.

What Is a Hybrid Work Model?

Hybrid working may look simple but it involves several changes you must keep in mind. In essence, you must implement hybrid work policies to fit both onsite and remote workers. However, it’s important to note that not all companies may benefit from this working model.

Is Your Company Suitable for a Hybrid Work Schedule?

Remember that adapting to a hybrid model doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a process that may take a few days in the hybrid work week so that everyone feels more comfortable.

What Can an Employee Do to Adapt to a New Work Schedule?

Planning to implement a hybrid work week schedule for your company? Take a look at the new trends for hybrid work schedules and choose one for you!

What Is the New Normal Hybrid Work Week Schedule Like?

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">As soon as Covid-19 vaccines came into the market, most companies are looking forward to reopening their offices. However, some of them choose the </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/top-hybrid-work-model-options" >hybrid work model</a> where the employees can split their time between work from home and working in the office. Due to this reason, the concept of having a permanent desk in the office is a past thing now. When the employees work in the office thrice or twice a week, it becomes difficult to manage the working space. It is where the concept of desk booking software evolves.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">The Validation of This Concept</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" ><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">For many years this concept was valid. Traditionally, employees were allowed to reserve a space as their workstations. Some of the software vendors have extended their offerings where the companies can choose and book desks. It is relevant along with features like visitor management tools. It becomes easier for freelancers and contractors to work in the office as per their&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/work-schedule-that-makes-hybrid-model-successful" >hybrid work schedule</a>.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">How Does This Software Work?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="How Does This Software Work" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_2698ebfdd77.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">The </span>hot desk booking software lets employees or freelancers choose a specific workspace for the total duration of days. In some cases, these workers can reserve the desk well in advance. In colloquial terms, it gets recognized as hoteling. Moreover, you need to come to the office and claim a particular desk that is available. It works on a first-come and first-serve basis. When you are not booking the desk in advance, the process is known as hot desking. Most of the vendors offer the clients both these options according to their preference.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">In addition to that, you will get to see the office floor plan that offers to show the individual workspaces, including the </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/standing-desks" >standing desk</a>, offices, common area, and even the meeting room. The manager of the company can designate each of these desks for their employees. They can be assigned based on reservation, permanent booking, or even hot desk.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">The Technique of Utilizing This Software</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="The Technique of Utilizing This Software" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_36158b23142.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">Employees can take the help of mobile apps or the internet to search for the available workspace. They can use the official QR code or RFID tag to get to their desk. As long as the pandemic period continues, employees can take the help of the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/3-popular-hot-desking-software-for-company" >hot desking software</a>. Most of them refer to this technique to prevent situations where they need to share the space with too many employees on a particular day.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">Elsewise, employees can also submit a reservation request. Either it gets automatic approval or gets forwarded to their manager for approval before your desk gets finalized. To ensure proper social distancing, some software office managers make the adjacent desk unavailable to the employees.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">In some instances, the software integrates with the hardware. In these situations, one can even check the real-time availability of the desk with the help of various cues.</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Consider The Factors Before Choosing the Best Desk Booking Software</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Consider The Factors" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_4437648a46a.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">In addition to some of the above factors, you can select the </span>desk booking software based on specific considerations. Check for this consideration in the below section.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Look for a modular system</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">If you are checking the larger room, then it often comes with multiple models. These models provide various tools, including visitor management, move management, or facility management. Also, you need to be sure that you can pay for just the desk if that is your only requirement.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Check for the employees&#39; health features</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">Every city or state has its regulations regarding the Covid-19 situation. If your company has workers from various parts of the country, make sure to look for options that offer the best health-related features. For instance, you may find multiple vendors who provide questionnaires that screen out the health-related problems before the employees come to the office. If any team member shows up with Covid-19 symptoms, then the reservation automatically gets canceled.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Have a backup plan and beware of complexity</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Have a backup plan and beware of complexity" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_5719b4d7834.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">If the </span>desk booking software is overly complicated, then the employees look for spot booking options. It can cause unnecessary chaos if your employees cannot find their desks at the proper interval. It can also affect your impromptu meeting sessions. During such scenarios, you can choose the option of the office desk booking software. You must also have some of the bookings done on a hot desk to help workers who forget to book in advance.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Don&#39;t forget about the security factor</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">You must respect the private data of your employees. Make it a point that you do not publish the security information. Before choosing your desk for an </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-as-a-service" >Autonomous hybrid office</a> through the booking software, you must ensure that it offers standard privacy compliance, enterprise-grade encryption, and various other security measures, including SSO support.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Use proper tools to have a cost-saving affair</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Use proper tools to have a cost-saving affair" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_6c7862b5435.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">During the advent of the pandemic situation, the company went towards the condition of empty offices. These instances had various expenses, including electricity, heating, and many more. Companies now deal with these open spaces by offering their employees a hybrid workplace to reduce the cost. You can do it by downsizing the office space.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Use the data for optimizing space</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">Once you use the </span>desk booking software to get to your office, you must not use the data to monitor individual employees. Instead, you should use the data to manage the office space efficiently. You should do it because it can tempt the manager and consciously or unconsciously favor the employees who come to the office frequently over the rest who conduct their office from home.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">In Conclusion</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="In Conclusion" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210831/Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Desk-Booking-Software-For-The-Hybrid-Workplace_78e8eeaa2ca.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">Many of the </span>desk booking software offer the companies to track the desk that their employees use. It can help companies to manage their space efficiently and effectively. But when the companies use these <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/hybrid-work-technology-for-business" >hybrid work technologies</a> to monitor individual workers, it becomes rather tricky. Hence, one should not use it as a measure to check the team member&#39;s presence. Instead, you can use tracking data to check on your employees.</p>

<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-27290bef-7fff-bd7e-a34d-441b90775331">When you provide your employees with the option of a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" >hybrid office</a>, you must take the help of the booking software to maintain the convenience of working.</p>

Standing Desk

Blog about Standing Desk Tips & Review. Autonomous SmartDesk 2 - Business is the best option for you in your workplace

As soon as the office reopens, there will be a surge in booking the workspace for your office days. Follow these steps to choose the best desk booking software.

Tips For Choosing The Best Desk Booking Software

Tips To Choose The Best Desk Booking Software For The Hybrid Workplace

If your company has chosen the hybrid work paradigm, you should be aware of Autonomous' hybrid work technology, which assists you to manage your hybrid teams.

14 Must Have Hybrid Work Technology to Upgrade Your Workplace

The introduction of a hybrid workplace and that businesses must work harder for their workers rather than only for their consumers or shareholders. Read on!

Top Strategies for Effective Hybrid Workplace Culture

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Human Resources fraternities are usually aware of a return to work policy as an unwell employee resumes work after recovery. Their sickness could be a result of being unwell, an injury, or a personal disability.&nbsp; This could have happened either at work or the employee&#39;s end when not working. A return to work policy template ensures that details are captured uniformly to manage correct data and record keeping. This could help in workforce planning.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">HR folks may have dealt with a return to office policy cases many times in their career. But nothing would have prepared them for mass numbers trying to return to work from a situation like a pandemic.&nbsp; During the pandemic, most employees globally were forced to stay back at home due to the infectious nature of the disease. As a result, businesses have defined&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/5-hybrid-work-policies-to-make-the-office-workplace-fair" >hybrid work guidelines</a> to assist employees have clarity on what roles could be worked from home to ensure fair treatment.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">As companies try to get their business back to normal globally, getting inoculated is a must for most HR to check. Most companies would have a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/effective-return-to-work-strategy-people-office-policies" >return to work strategy</a>. Such return to work policy sample letters aim to settle employees back into the new normal way of working. They aim to ensure that they do not spread the infection to other employees as employees get back to work.</p>

<div class="youtube-embed-wrapper" style="position:relative;padding-bottom:56.25%;padding-top:30px;height:0;overflow:hidden"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IJYVKY6JukU" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%" width="640"></iframe></div>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">While earlier a usual certificate of fitness would have sufficed, more is at risk with the pandemic. HR folks must ensure that those employees who have had the Covid are treated with care. How does HR of any company manage such intricate details with large employee numbers? The only solution that can be effective is the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" >Autonomous Hybrid Office</a>.&nbsp; This is an integrated business solution that helps businesses run effectively.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Components of a Return to Work Policy</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Components of a Return to Work policy" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/Return-to-Work-Policy-Template-for-HR_27f80648144.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Most HR folks maintain the following information when an employee is returning to work.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">A return to work (RTW) policy may include employee&rsquo;s name, employee number, date of being unwell, treating doctor&rsquo;s name, leave period (duration and date of starting leave), nature of sickness, treatment identified, if there are any restrictions in terms of work and finally a fitness certificate by the doctor when the employee returns to work. Some companies also document an&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/office-hoteling-policy-template" >office hoteling policy</a> that is helpful for both returning employees and employers.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">A few procedural elements in the return to work policy template that HR could include are:</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">1. Immediate reporting of injuries and illnesses to HR</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Immediate reporting of injuries and illnesses to HR" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/Return-to-Work-Policy-Template-for-HR_3c959b0dde7.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Employees must report as soon as they fall ill to their HR team members.&nbsp; Why? It is important to ensure that the employee receives medical care immediately.&nbsp; While the main reason for this is from humanity&#39;s point of view, at times, the labor laws of the land may apply. If not followed properly, this could impact the company due to negligence.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">At times, situations could occur inside a company&#39;s premises, for example, food poisoning, any gas being released by mistake while working, or more.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">As HR gets notified this in the return to work policy template, they can decide to get the employee to a doctor or hospital. Additionally, immediate steps to prevent the spread of circumstances leading to the injury or accident can be taken up by HR.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">2. List of Network Hospitals</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">If the injury is a workplace, employers are responsible for the employee&#39;s well-being. The labor laws could define how a company must find network hospitals to admit the employee for immediate health care.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">HR has to have handy a list of doctors, ambulances, and networked hospitals in the return to work policy template to manage such situations.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">3. Clarity on treatment and costs</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Clarity on treatment and costs" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/Return-to-Work-Policy-Template-for-HR_414d8da74d4.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Most labor laws define the terms of conditions of paying the bills of an employee who has fallen ill at the workplace. More often than not, employees are covered for workplace injuries with health care or insurance providers.&nbsp; However, a </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/workplace-injury-prevention" >workplace injury</a> could have a separate cover.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">4. Leave while Recuperation</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Workplace injuries, once identified, have special leave approved by the HR officers.&nbsp; The injured employee gets paid during such leave and does not worry about getting back to work.&nbsp; For a company, the costs for such treatment and pay during recovery are built into the HR department&#39;s budgets under special situations. So, it should be included in the return to work policy template.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">5. Jobs bank or transitional tasks</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Jobs bank or transitional tasks" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/Return-to-Work-Policy-Template-for-HR_51d82f6a9ae.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">HR has a defined list of tasks that an employee could be given for employees returning to work. Why? Labor laws define that a returning to work employee is not put into danger by giving him his regular role/ task, involving working on heavy machines. This could put him and other workers at greater risk should he not have the strength to operate or have a case of nausea or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Employers may sometimes enable an employee&#39;s recovery by defining tasks in a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/remote-work-policy-template-for-business" >remote work policy template</a>.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">6. Regular training on return to work policy</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Strong HR practices involve maintaining separate records of regular training conducted on the return to work policy. This helps employees understand what must be done when they get a workplace injury or see another employee unwell. In addition, HR must have a sample of return to work letters in the return to work policy template to know they are not being singled out when such letters are given to them.</span>&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Returning to Office from Pandemic</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">As companies prepare for employees returning from work, it is now mandatory for them to include the following:</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Vaccination details</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Vaccination details" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/Return-to-Work-Policy-Template-for-HR_67abbeee233.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Details on when an employee has been vaccinated with the first shot, the second shot due, name of medical facility, and more. Such details not only help the HR from compliance but also protect other employees. In addition, many companies that offer services like banking, hospitals, restaurants, and more are using this information to woo customers back.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Workforce planning</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office"><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Knowing the vaccination status of employees helps HR to plan the workforce schedules and more.&nbsp; When will a batch of employees be going back for their second vaccine shot (if required), how many employees will be available to work, and if some employees could be expected to fall sick; all such information can help businesses plan for work. As companies get into a </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/top-hybrid-work-model-options" >hybrid office model</a>, workforce planning can ensure that work schedules are met.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Summary</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fb1faf37-7fff-6afc-1b12-5a86eb0642df">Return to work policy assists HR and others know what steps must be taken in an unusual situation. Some elements that should be contained in the return to work policy template above are very useful for you. For employees, it is an additional sign that shows that the company cares for their well-being.</span></p>

As HR, do you have a return to work policy template? Are you documenting employee details to ensure workers' good health and overall being? Read on!

Return to Work Policy Template for HR

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Managers and HRs always try to build a work environment that engages workers and provides them more opportunities to interact rather than only bringing them together physically. As a result, many of them have decided to plan a </span>flexible office design to achieve that. You are well aware of how the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/best-hybrid-office-layouts-for-employees" >hybrid office concept</a> has become the latest fad ever since the work trends have changed.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">So, in such dynamic times, designing a </span>flexible office layout can help you in multiple ways. In multiple cases, adopting the accurate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/figure-out-the-right-hybrid-work-strategy-for-your-company" >hybrid work strategy</a> has helped businesses survive in these uncertain times. So, it won&rsquo;t be wrong if we say that a flexible workspace design can be a nice add-on in this run.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">As a manager, you have to evaluate the situation from various dimensions, introduce workers to the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/flexible-working-model-managers-need-to-know" >flexible working model</a>, and divide the team members efficiently. Nevertheless, prior to this, you need to understand how far this flexible office layout is successful for your team. So, let&rsquo;s begin!&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">How does a Flexible Office Design Make a Difference for Your Employee&rsquo;s Productivity?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="How does a Flexible Office Design" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_27553eac9b0.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">A </span>flexible office design is not a new concept; however, it has gained more traction these days. You know that your employee&rsquo;s satisfaction matters the most if you wish to build a more interactive team. The good thing about a flexible workspace is that your employee is not bound to work in the traditional fixed work hours. Therefore, they have a sense of freedom in selecting their work hours which lays a positive impact.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">If you provide a flexible work environment where your employees feel more engaged in their office, they will better collaborate with their teammates. And, you are aware of how vital it is to have greater collaboration within teammates while working on any project.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">A better collaboration promotes positive energy within the entire team, so they tend to become more productive and eventually produce better results. You know that a </span>flexible office space design with a <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/sustain-company-culture-in-a-hybrid-work-model" >hybrid work culture</a> is currently a hot topic, so it will probably help you retain your skillful employees. They like working in a flexible work environment.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">So, overall, this latest fad can be beneficial for your entire team. But, what next? Well, you now know that this layout can be fruitful, so you should know what you should consider if you wish to adopt a flexible work environment.&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">What Aspects Should You Consider for a Flexible Office Design?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" ><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Since most companies are now envisioning a hybrid future, it is better that you know the aspects whose apt evaluation will lead you to design your best </span>flexible office layout. To make this easier, we have shared their details below.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Nature of Work</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="What Aspects Should You Consider" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_39a0641f7aa.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Your nature of work defines which sort of tasks you will have at your end in your office. For example, if you have a tech firm that you can easily operate on any PC, you may think of promoting both remote and on-site work. However, giving the workers the flexibility to work remotely is what a flexible workplace would be all about.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">If your projects require more physical interaction and need workers physically, you should plan your workspace in a way that you have some on-site teams. Nevertheless, the same team members should always be in the same phase to avoid any hassle.&nbsp;</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Space Available</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Space Available" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_48e728cd20b.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Once you have your work type well-defined in your mind, the next important aspect is the space that you have at hand. Basically, you must ensure that the team is following the standards of operations when they meet physically. So, maintaining social distance is vital. Therefore, you&#39;ll have to plan efficiently to use the space in a way that the workers can interact and walk around the office while maintaining their distance.&nbsp;</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Safety Measures</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Safety Measures" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_58204a60432.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Ever since the pandemic has hit use, workers have become more worried about hygiene at the workplace. So, invest a good amount of time in ensuring that your workplace is hygienic enough for your workers to work confidently. Sanitization of your&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/office-furniture-ideas-for-a-hybrid-work-model" >hybrid office furniture</a> and other equipment that comes in regular contact with employees can help in this regard.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Furniture Selection</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Furniture Selection" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_69ff3eee21c.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Furniture selection is by far the most significant aspect in terms of a </span>flexible office design. Remember that you are adopting this work layout because you wish to make things easier and more flexible for your employees. Therefore, their satisfaction matters the most.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">In this regard, your office furniture selection can play a pivotal role in your </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" >hybrid office</a>. By choosing the right furniture, you can provide a home-like work experience to your employees while they attend the office physically. In addition, this can help them adapt to the office environment upon returning to work.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Nevertheless, this furniture can go a long way in the current work trends. Therefore, you should think of mainly adding more spacious and cozy furniture so that your workers feel more comfortable while working in the office.</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Bottom Line &ndash; How Can You Design Your Flexible Office?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Bottom Line" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210827/The-Flexible-Office-Design-to-Make-Workspace-More-Productive_7b344cee3a3.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">Your </span>flexible office layout depends upon how well you evaluate each aspect that we mentioned above. It is the evaluation of these aspects that will help you judge the right ways to execute an efficient plan. In addition, the <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-as-a-service" >Autonomous Hybrid Office app</a> can also help you a lot in this regard and guide you through the right path.</p>

<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e66d06-7fff-13ca-3653-1cc5e9026c6e">This app would provide you with all those features that can help you have a </span>flexible office design. In addition, you may use features like desk sharing and other options to eventually increase your employees&#39; interaction and productivity.</p>

Workplace Inspiration

Workplace Setup

A flexible office design can help you make your employees more productive. This detailed guide here will provide you a walkthrough to execute it effectively.

The Flexible Office Design – Best Layout to Boost Your Productivity

The Flexible Office Design to Make Workspace More Productive

Adopting a hybrid office model. Formulating ways of working meticulously and remotely in a hybrid work environment. A means to efficient resource management.

5 Hybrid Office Models with Best Practices for Business

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">It&#39;s been more than a year since the world faced global paralysis due to the pandemic, and almost every country went into nationwide lockdowns. This impacted almost every business where people got forced to work remotely due to the prevailing situation. However, ever since vaccines have entered the picture and countries have started reporting comparatively fewer cases, businesses have started to adopt a </span>phased return to work plan.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">In a time when people started liking the idea of a </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office">hybrid workplace</a>, reintroducing the traditional work practices would make workers more nervous and doubtful. So, devising a proper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/effective-return-to-work-strategy-people-office-policies">return to work strategy</a> was the need of the hour.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" ><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">People may argue that everything is running somewhat smoothly in this hybrid environment, so why should they even change? Well, even if your company has the best&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/best-hybrid-office-layouts-for-employees">hybrid office layout</a>, it needs some degree of physical interaction for better teamwork. So, sooner or later, workers had to return to their office. However, the question which arises here is why a gradual return to work is encouraged? To understand that, we shall first have a look at what is a return to work plan, as that will help us understand its importance.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">What is Phased Return to Work?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="What is Phased Return to Work" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210826/The-Key-Success-of-Phased-Return-to-Work-Plan_269cc25412f.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">Phased or </span>gradual return to work is about bringing people back to work in phases. This procedure requires some evaluation. In case of the current pandemic, if you are interested in bringing back workers in phases, you should conduct the required&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/return-to-office-risk-assessment-samples">return to office risk assessment</a>.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">You must know which employees can work from remote areas and which ones are among the first ones you wish to get back to work. Basically, the whole idea is that you have to decide the locations of your office workers, once done that, you can bring the employees respectively.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">If you don&rsquo;t look at this case with a covid-specific viewpoint, you will understand its practice better. For example, companies often adopt it when a worker returns to work after a long break due to illness or maternity leave. In these cases, the worker is given lighter duties upon returning and is made to work for lesser hours. In short, in a phased plan, workers are granted some relaxation so that they can readjust themselves.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">Since we have faced a pandemic recently, it is better to bring back workers in this way and provide them a mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy environment with all relevant alterations in your office. We know that you must be thinking why that is so. Well, this is due to its potential benefits that have made us believe that a </span>gradual return to work plan is the need of the hour. So, let&rsquo;s have a look at them.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Why is it Important to Phase the Back to Work Session?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Why is it Important to Phase the Back to Work Session" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210826/The-Key-Success-of-Phased-Return-to-Work-Plan_357d17a353b.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">As managers, you would have noticed how much your team has to go through to adjust to this different work plan which they got introduced during Covid. After all that, adjusting back to the office environment would be difficult for most of them. Most of them would even hesitate to attend crowded places. In such a situation, phasing the back-to-work session seems a viable option.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">People need time and space to adjust themselves to these changing work trends, so even if you are bringing them back to the workplace, you should do that in phases. A </span>phased return to work plan would help you gain back your employee&rsquo;s trust. In addition, you will get more space to provide a physically and emotionally healthy environment and <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/4-important-things-to-make-successful-flexible-work-culture">flexible work culture</a> to them.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Detailed Guide for HR Team to Make Phased Return to Work Plan</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">By now, you would have understood that a </span>gradual return to work plan is suitable in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/what-is-a-hybrid-working-environment">hybrid work environment</a> to maintain social distance and provide a healthy work environment to your employees. The next thing to understand is the action plan as to how you will go about this work plan and ensure everything works smoothly. Here, we have shared a detailed guide that would help you understand each tier that you must evaluate.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Proper Allocation of Employees</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Proper Allocation of Employees" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210826/The-Key-Success-of-Phased-Return-to-Work-Plan_4423d0c2db7.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">You have to evaluate the duties of each employee and judge how you should team them up in your </span>phased return to work plan. It is better if the people of the same team are working in the same work mode. Having teams with some remote members and some which are coordinating physically makes it tough to manage them. So, usually, all employees working on a single project as a team and having the habit of working together should be in the same phase of the work plan.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Evaluation of The Health and Safety Measures</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Evaluation of The Health and Safety Measures" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210826/The-Key-Success-of-Phased-Return-to-Work-Plan_540ce1b60ef.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">You are aware that people have become more concerned about the health and hygienic conditions of a workplace ever since the pandemic began. So, it is better to restrict the number of employees and arrange the desks in a way that they have the prescribed social distance. Having constant reminders to tell people to use sanitizers and wash their hands can be helpful here as well.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">This distance is not only a concern when the employees are sitting in their cabins and working, but it is also important when they are moving around. So, in your </span>phased return to work plan, evaluate your office space and judge how many members can easily use the lift and walk around while staying at a good distance.&nbsp;</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Cater Employee&rsquo;s Satisfaction</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Cater Employee’s Satisfaction" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210826/The-Key-Success-of-Phased-Return-to-Work-Plan_691b902844f.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">Often workers won&rsquo;t find it comfortable to have more co-workers around them. The desired interaction would vary from person to person once the workers return to their workplaces. So, you should provide some sort of signal or code to each employee that would help them recognize which so-workers are comfortable socializing. You can think of giving colored wrist bands to employees that would show their degree of comfort in having a social interaction with other employees.&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Final Words</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9713758b-7fff-9988-dab5-9d49a29fd360">Your employees&rsquo; confidence is the need of the hour here. So, you should ensure that you facilitate them the best way so that they find it safe to return to their workplace. You should make them aware of your action plan and explain to them the entire walkthrough </span>what a return to work plan is and how a phased return to work plan benefits them to clear their doubts. In the end, always take your <a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/8-effective-employee-feedbacks">employee&#39;s feedback</a> to make a better work environment.</p>

Phased or gradual return to work is about bringing people back to work in phases. This procedure requires some evaluation.

What is Phased Return to Work?

People need time and space to adjust themselves to these changing work trends, so even if you are bringing them back to the workplace, you should do that in phases. A phased return to work plan would help you gain back your employee’s trust.

Why is it Important to Phase the Back to Work Session?

Phased return to work plan can help you regain your employee’s confidence to work on-site. This guide will explain to you how you can use it for your business.

Phased Return to Work Plan – A Complete Action Plan

The Key Success of Phased Return to Work Plan

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">A new academic year is starting/ has started globally for most children. Across nations, as the status of Covid varies, schools are fretting whether schools should reopen for physical classes, continue online classes or work with a hybrid model.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">The top priority of schools and state-run administration has been to prevent the spread of the coronavirus if schools reopen.&nbsp; Some schools are operating at 50% capacity as per local administration rules.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">With pandemic impacting all industries, schools and colleges have had no choice but to welcome technology to their rescue. This was an important decision by most schools so that children don&rsquo;t lose opportunities and impact the leadership of nations.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">There is no unique solution that schools or colleges can implement at this stage. All stakeholders at a school level are worried about the delay and effectiveness of learning. Hybrid learning advantages have been popular with educators, parents, and students themselves. Let&rsquo;s explore some hybrid learning benefits as well as its drawbacks below!</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">What is Hybrid Learning?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="What is Hybrid Learning?" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_2620de7af0e.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877"><a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/about%20us/covid%20response%20center/overview/covid-19%20education%20response%20toolkit/202010_unesco-mckinsey%20response%20toolkit_hybrid%20learning_vf.pdf" rel="nofollow">Hybrid learning</a></span> is a learning approach that is a mix of in-person learning and remote learning. Participation and involvement of children during in-person learning are critical.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">While trying to increase the learning effectiveness, the complexity and operational challenges are causing a step back. Operational challenges include physical space available in a classroom, following covid protocols set by local government, physical distancing norms, and more.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Let&rsquo;s explore the hybrid learning advantages and disadvantages.&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Benefits of Hybrid Learning</h2>

<h3 dir="ltr">1. Easier Access to Learning</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Easier Access to Learning" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_38a32e62056.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">The first hybrid learning benefit is the ease to access learning. In-person learning or how schools were run earlier required learners to get to school, perhaps every day. For learners with special needs, schedules would vary. This meant limited access for those students who could not get to school for any reason.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">With </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/hybrid-work-technology-for-business">hybrid work technology</a>, online classes have paved the way for easier access to those who can&#39;t make it to school. However, the reasons for not getting to school could vary from one child to another.&nbsp; In some countries, underprivileged children must earn their daily bread or contribute their earnings to their families.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">With online classes, the commute to school and its cost have been reduced, making school fees affordable to some.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">What does this mean for schools?</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">There are no limits to geographical locations for schools. With online classes, anyone across the globe can join a school/ college globally.&nbsp; This means more students for educational establishments.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">2. Learning with Technology</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office" ><img loading="lazy" alt="hybrid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210402/hybrid-working-banner-blog68cb741619.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 600px;" /></a></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Another hybrid learning benefit is the contribution of technology. Standardization in learning curriculums, robotics in learning, technology like text-to-speech for specially challenged children, and more are benefits of using technology in learning. In addition, educators in the hybrid learning space use online polls from websites like mentimeter.com, interesting crosswords from wordwall.com, and more, making the lessons interesting for students.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">3. Flexibility</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Flexibility" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_47a33d62dfd.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">The children of the current generation are far more sophisticated in technology. They seek as many options as possible when they want. With the use of technology, even if they miss a lesson, they have the flexibility to learn by watching videos of online classes that were held. Schools have the option to record sessions with </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/20-best-online-meeting-tools">online meeting tools</a> like MS-Teams, Zoom, and more.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Additionally, flexibility was welcome by students as colleges and universities closed due to the pandemic. Many students returned to their countries, where time zones are different. Flexibility is the major hybrid learning benefit.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Students today value the freedom they have on how to learn and what to learn.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">4. Effective Use of Resources Leading to Higher Interest</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Hybrid learning has proved beneficial for educators and students alike. Most educators have turned to online resources and incorporated them for varied learning pedagogies with everyone stuck at home. Examples include videos, live demonstrations where possible, home-based experiments, and more.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">5. Reduced Absenteeism</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Reduced Absenteeism" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_570f84ea4ce.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">While many schools detest absenteeism, online classes have provided students the flexibility to join sessions as they please. This is an obvious hybrid learning benefit. For example, in some cases, students have to go for a doctor&#39;s appointment when they have to take a full day&#39;s leave; not so anymore with online classes, as they can join back once they are through with a doctor&#39;s visit.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Here are some&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/remote-learning-tips-for-students-to-stay-focused">remote learning tips</a> that will help you focus and gain the maximum from online sessions.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Challenges to Consider</h2>

<h3 dir="ltr">Limited Access</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Besides some </span>hybrid learning benefits, it also has some disadvantages and challenges. Some students may have challenges in accessing high-speed internet and computer systems. For example, some households have seen only a single laptop or computer system amongst two or more siblings.&nbsp; This could lead to children sharing the resources and missing many sessions.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Additionally, not every house has independent spaces to be converted into a study room. Many houses need family members to </span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/arrange-shared-home-office-for-two">share home space</a>, leading to disturbances and perhaps ineffective learning.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Difficulty in Using Technology</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Difficulty in Using Technology" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_62d5280a06f.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">While technology access is one of the </span>hybrid learning benefits, it also causes some difficulties. While many children adapt to technology easily, many may have challenges with it. Some folks may prefer in-person classrooms as learning styles can vary between audio, video, and kinaesthetic.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Alienation</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Most children are facing alienation, having been stuck inside homes. They are missing their friends, opportunities to go out and play.&nbsp; Even physical activities and hobbies like sports and music lessons have come to a standstill.</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Basic life skills like meeting people, making friends, communicating with folks, working as a team, and more have taken a back seat.&nbsp; How will children learn these skills when they are stuck all day long in their systems?</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Increased Risk of Covid</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Increased Risk of Covid" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_705683a42dd.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">With hybrid learning, children are required to go to school a few days a week.&nbsp; This increases their risk of catching the Covid. In addition, as vaccinations are just starting for twelve and above children in the USA, in many nations, children below 18 have not been vaccinated.</span></p>

<h3 dir="ltr">Limited Exposure to Practical Learning &amp; Sports</h3>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Today, children miss learning from practical experiments they would do in a laboratory for sciences, music, audio/speech lessons, and more. Though some parents may be hearing their children shouting in delight, cracking their rifle as a sniper, those who play sports have been limited in their exposure. Sports schedules and body fitness is limited to individual children.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Don&rsquo;t miss our reviews of some&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/ourblog/10-time-management-best-practices">time management best practices</a>.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Solutions?</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><img loading="lazy" alt="Solutions?" src="https://cdn.autonomous.ai/static/upload/images/common/upload/20210825/5-Benefits-of-Hybrid-Learning-and-Challenges-to-Consider_8684f62044d.jpg" style="width: 1920px; height: 1080px;" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Schools, Colleges, and Universities must explore collaborative technologies like the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/jam">Autonomous Jam</a>.&nbsp; Giving you instant access to your network, you can connect to your batch mates, school/college colleagues, or a faculty member. So say a quick hello, get an answer to your one-liner doubts, and more.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">Those working in a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.autonomous.ai/hybrid-office">hybrid office</a> have already seen the benefit of such solutions that help you connect and network during office/school/college hours and even later.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Summary</h2>

<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6cf46e0-7fff-8c9d-88ca-90b49556c877">As a wrap-up, hybrid learning is here to stay for a while as it has more benefits. How we adapt to it quickly is dependent on each individual, but there is no escaping it.</span></p>

Moving to a hybrid learning environment? Or, if you are a parent deciding on a university for your child, here are the pros and cons of hybrid learning.

5 Benefits of Hybrid Learning and Challenges to Consider

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